Hyundai celebrates another major win for IONIQ 5 N at the Auto Trader New Car Awards 2024

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Hot Hyundai picks up Rory Reid Award as best car he’s tested over the past year Electrified N model hailed by Reid for aggressive design and stunning performance Latest in long line of accolades for game-changer that is rewriting rulebook for EVs IONIQ 5 N is available to order from £65,000 Leatherhead, 13 June 2024 – The amazing Hyundai IONIQ 5 N success story is continuing at full pace after the electric hyper hatch picked up one of the most prestigious honours in the 2024 Auto Trader New Car Awards. The IONIQ 5 N collected the coveted Rory Reid Award as the car that stands out as the finest he has tested over the past 12 months. The former presenter of TV’s Top Gear cast his vote for the Hyundai ahead of a string of other highly rated new cars, thanks to its compelling blend of sharp design, superb ability on the road and track, and general user-friendliness. Reid, Auto Trader’s YouTube Director, said: “With aggressive styling, stunning performance and all the practicalities you could ever need, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N really does cover all the bases. It’s a truly engaging driving experience that also brings plenty of fun, with surprisingly convincing fake engine noise and gearshifts. If ever there was a car to convince hardcore petrolheads to make the switch to electric, this is it.” The high-performance model is based on the Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) of the standard IONIQ 5 – the 2022 World Car of the Year – and integrates the motorsport-bred technologies and expertise of Hyundai’s N division to take driving enjoyment to a new level. Among a host of key technical advances is a powertrain which delivers greater power output and enhanced performance in battery cooling and braking. The IONIQ 5 N’s electric motors spin up to 21,000 RPM, providing up to 609 PS in normal conditions, or 650 PS when the car’s N Grin Boost (NGB) feature is engaged, maximising acceleration for up to 10 seconds. 0-62mph is achievable in 3.4 seconds, while a top speed of 161mph is attainable on tracks. Other upgrades include a strengthened steering column for improved feedback, Electronic Controlled Suspension that adapts suspension stiffness according to the drive mode, and a suite of sophisticated electronic control technology in the E-GMP platform. Highlights include N Pedal, an intelligent software function that provides instant turn-in and enhanced throttle sensitivity for exhilarating cornering, and fully variable front and rear N Torque Distribution. The IONIQ 5 N also sets a new benchmark in terms of emotional engagement for a performance EV, courtesy of N e-shift, which simulates the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission of internal combustion engine N cars, while the addictive soundtrack that Rory Reid is such a fan of comes via groundbreaking N Active Sound+ technology. The recognition from Auto Trader comes in the wake of a series of high-profile accolades for the IONIQ 5 N, including being crowned 2024 World Performance Car in the World Car Awards. In December it was named TopGear.com’s overall 2023 Car of the Year, following that up in May by being crowned Best EV Hot Hatch in the TopGear.com Electric Awards. In the same month, CAR hailed it as the world’s best electric performance car following a definitive seven-car test. The IONIQ 5 N has also made history at the Nürburgring, where it recorded the fastest electric SUV lap time with Germany’s Sport Auto. Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, said: “The reaction to the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N since its launch has been outstanding, resulting in a string of awards from some of the UK’s most respected media outlets. Receiving this award from Rory demonstrates yet again what an exceptional car the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is – exciting to drive, great to look at and yet thoroughly usable on a day-to-day basis. It continues to set the standard for performance EVs.” For more information on the IONIQ 5 N, which is available to order from £65,000, visit www.hyundai.co.uk For more on the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N’s success in the Auto Trader awards, which are now in their eighth year, and a full list of the 2024 winners, go to www.autotrader.co.uk/new-car-awards

News in Brief from BMW Group UK

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BMW offers UK customers increased connectivity through Personal eSIM solution. BMW Vision Neue Klasse wins T3 Design Award. BMW UK partners with CAVU to provide premium chauffeur-driven experiences at Manchester Airport’s new Private Terminal. Triple victory for the BMW 5 Series and a win for the BMW iX at recent awards. MINI Cooper Electric crowned Top Gear’s ‘Best EV Supermini’. BMW 3 Series and BMW 8 Series named winners at cap hpi’s Used Car of the Year Awards. BMW integrates a new Personal eSIM solution across its model portfolio and forges a partnership with Manchester Airports Group to elevate the airport passenger journey through premium chauffeur-driven experiences. Meanwhile, the brand’s winning streak continues, with both the BMW 5 Series and BMW iX securing accolades at recent awards. MINI also celebrated success, as the all-new MINI Cooper Electric was crowned as Top Gear’s ‘Best EV Supermini’ at their 2024 Electric Car Awards. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse was honoured with T3’s prestigious Design Award in June, while the BMW 3 Series and BMW 8 Series received top titles at cap hpi’s Used Car of the Year Awards. BMW offers UK customers increased connectivity through Personal eSIM solution.At the end of April, BMW announced the integration of Transatel’s Ubigi global Personal eSIM solution across its model portfolio. By activating their Personal eSIM, BMW customers in the UK can now enjoy additional infotainment features and unlimited WiFi connectivity in their vehicle using Ubigi’s 5G UK data plan. Depending on the model, this service enables the in-vehicle WiFi-Hotspot, video streaming services on the central instrument cluster and is particularly useful in conjunction with the Theatre Screen of the BMW i7 and BMW 7 Series, offering a variety of entertainment powered by Amazon Fire TV. Owners can conveniently configure their Personal eSIM via the My BMW App and subscribe to Ubigi’s UK data plan, priced at £10 per month. This service is available for BMW vehicles with Operating Systems 8, 8.5 and 9* and equipped with the optional Personal eSIM. BMW Vision Neue Klasse wins T3 Design Award.The BMW Vision Neue Klasse won T3’s prestigious Design Award in June, celebrating the Vision Vehicle’s innovative and forward-thinking design. Introduced to the T3 Awards in 2022, the design awards recognise products that combine functionality with elegant aesthetics. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse, a fully electric vision car which paves the way for the next-generation of electric BMW models impressed the judges with both its aesthetics and advanced technology. Notable features include the Panoramic Vision head-up display which is visible to all occupants, and minimalistic yet elegant design including such as headlights integrated into the grille, e-ink door handles, and an embossed BMW logo on the bonnet. BMW partners with CAVU to provide premium chauffeur-driven experiences at aether, The Private Terminal exclusively at Manchester Airport.BMW has announced a new partnership with CAVU (owned by Manchester Airports Group) to help revolutionise the airport passenger journey. Through this alliance, travellers can enjoy a truly premium experience as they are chauffeured airside using a fleet of luxury BMW vehicles. The fleet, comprising the all-electric BMW i7, the seven-seater BMW X7 and the high-performance BMW XM, will be used to seamlessly transport passengers from aether – the new Private Terminal, exclusively at Manchester Airport – to and from their aircraft. Situated in a contemporary, self-contained space, completely separated from the main airport terminal, aether boasts a dining experience by Adam Reid, panoramic runway views, and dedicated staff to attend to guests’ needs. The new terminal opens Monday 4 November and will be available to all** travellers at Manchester Airport as a purchasable service. Triple victory for the BMW 5 Series and a win for the BMW iX at recent awards.After an impressive start to 2024, the BMW 5 Series continues its winning streak. Upholding its reputation as the world’s most successful business saloon, it emerged victorious at the Business Motoring and Great British Fleet awards. The Business Motoring Awards, a valuable reference for SMEs and vehicle operators, celebrate best-in-class suppliers and vehicles. At the 2024 awards, the BMW 5 Series secured both the ‘Best Executive Car’ and ‘Best Company Car’ titles. The model also received commendation from Fleet World at their 2024 Great British Fleet Awards, taking the top spot as ‘Best Fleet Executive Car. Judges praised the model’s performance, comfort and interior quality as “an impressive package”, commenting, “The new 5 Series once again raises the standard in this class and continues to be viewed as the ultimate driving machine.” Also offered with an all-electric drive as the BMW i5, the eighth generation BMW 5 Series fuses progressive technology with sophisticated styling and hallmark driving pleasure. With these recent acknowledgements, the latest iteration has now accumulated an impressive 13 accolades since its introduction in October last year. Meanwhile, the BMW iX secured its 16th accolade as ‘Best Business Lease Car’ at the inaugural Leasing.com Awards. The recently established awards are designed to celebrate and recognise excellence in the products and services available within the leasing sector. On presenting the award, Leasing.com commented, “With awesome real-world range and a cabin that’s a pleasure to spend time in, it’s little surprise that the BMW iX won out when it comes to the Best Business Lease Car category. The importance of premium plug-in power for business users can’t be overstated.” Judges were particularly impressed by the fully-electric SAV’s “innovative design” and “cutting-edge technology,” describing it as “the perfect option for forward-thinking business users that want to make a statement.” MINI Cooper Electric crowned Top Gear’s ‘Best EV Supermini’.Following its launch earlier this month, the all-new MINI Cooper Electric has been awarded ‘Best EV Supermini’ by Top Gear as part of their Electric Awards. Kickstarted in 2019, the annual awards exist to credit the best EVs in the world across an array of categories. The MINI Cooper Electric was commended by Top Gear for its spacious interior and driving dynamics, with Jason Barlow, Editor-at-large, commented, “Around town the MINI is all the car you’d ever need.…

New Shelby Super Snake Mustang brings 830 horsepower to UK motorists

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UK buyers can now order an 830 horsepower Shelby Super Snake Mustang through high-performance specialist, Clive Sutton Available in left- and right-hand drive, the comprehensively enhanced 2024 Mustangs are the highest-performing Shelby Super Snake vehicles in history Enhancement to powertrain, suspension, brakes, cooling, wheels, and body make the Shelby Super Snake Mustang a technically sophisticated and highly capable performance car Images: 2024 Shelby Super Snake Mustang from Clive Sutton – DOWNLOADVideo: 1 min action – All-New Shelby Super Snake: WATCHB-roll: Driving & outside / Studio London, 13 June 2024 – London-based high-performance vehicle specialist, Clive Sutton, has opened order books for the 830 horsepower 2024 Shelby Super Snake Mustang. The limited-edition Shelby American enhancement to the new S650 Mustang is available from the Sutton team in left- and right-hand drive, in coupe and convertible form, featuring a supercharged 830hp V8 engine. The new model is available in fastback or convertible form, with either a manual or automatic transmission. As the highest performing Shelby Super Snake in history, the 5.0-litre V8-powered Mustang features a host of enhancements, from uprated suspension, and better cooling, to bigger brakes, and a high-flow exhaust. The Shelby model also features lightweight improvements, including an aluminium bonnet, magnesium wheels, and a carbon fibre rear wing – which also contributes to the car’s more agile handling. Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American: “We designed the Shelby Super Snake to be the pinnacle of our performance cars based on Ford’s world-class Mustang sports car. It follows Carroll Shelby’s vision that each generation of car improves the breed – this is our best Shelby Super Snake yet.” Priced from £220,000 on-the-road and inclusive of all modifications, taxes, and import duties, buyers interested in the powerful new Mustang can reserve one of the 250 exclusively limited build slots now through specialist retailer Clive Sutton, for delivery in early 2025. Every model is entered in the official Shelby Register and comes with a comprehensive 3-year / 30,000-mile warranty. Clive Sutton, Founder and CEO: “We have a long history of bringing UK enthusiasts the most powerful and desirable Mustangs. I’m confident that the Shelby Super Snake Mustang will excite many of our UK customers. The fact we handle all import technicalities and can offer this model in right-hand drive with a three-year warranty, means UK buyers essentially get a full vehicle manufacturer-style turnkey experience.” The Shelby Super Snake was inspired by the 1966 race bred Mark IV Ford GT, which won Le Mans that year. The first Super Snake was a one-off experimental model built for high-speed track testing. Over the years, the iconic model line has evolved, while retaining its ‘competition-edged’ personality. Clive Sutton has imported Shelby vehicles to the UK for more than 16 years and is the UK’s only official Shelby American distributor. Alongside the new Shelby Super Snake Mustang, the Sutton team offers Shelby’s range-topping Super Snake F-150 trucks, and the new Shelby Cobra. The Super Snake F-150 brings super-sized power and presence with 775bhp of all-American performance. Meanwhile, the new CSX10000 Shelby Cobra faithfully reinvents the iconic 1960s sports car with a new 5.0-litre V8 engine and a host of modern enhancements. Buyers interested in the Shelby range, or the Sutton team’s other luxury and high-performance vehicles, can call the London-based team on +44 (0)20 7483 6500 or visit CliveSutton.co.uk. Clive Sutton specialises in luxury and high-performance vehicles, bringing UK buyers some of the most unique, powerful, and desirable cars, trucks, and SUVs from the US and around the world.

Bentley Environmental Foundation celebrates first anniversary and three new partnerships

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Bentley’s global sustainability initiative commemorates highly successful first 12 months Three new partnerships take tally of Foundation organisations to ten Hubbub, Forum for the Future and Renewable World become latest partners Announcement re-confirms luxury marque’s commitment to environmental enterprises and sustainability Bentley Environmental Foundation targets next generation solutions to environmental challenges as part of firm’s Beyond100 strategy (Crewe, 13 June 2024) The Bentley Environmental Foundation today celebrated its first anniversary with the announcement of three new partnerships. The latest group of organisations – Hubbub, Forum for the Future and Renewable World – to join the Foundation takes the total number of partners to ten in just 12 months, further reflecting Bentley’s ongoing ambitions to help preserve and regenerate the planet for future generations. UK-based charity Hubbub brings businesses, organisations, local authorities and community groups together to create environmental campaigns. Last year, the award-winning charity delivered 49 projects, encouraging over six million people to think differently about environmental issues. A Hubbub poll found 78 per cent of people felt better after spending time in nature, yet more than a third spent less than an hour a week doing so. With support from the Foundation, Hubbub plans to bring people closer to nature by connecting community-led green spaces across the UK, with work starting this summer. Forum for the Future is a leading international non-profit that, for the last 28 years, has been working to accelerate the shift towards a just and regenerative future. Through a series of partnerships with governments, businesses and local groups, Forum has focussed attention on how we produce, consume and think about our food and energy. Forum’s ‘Business Transformation Compass’, launched in 2021, urged companies to step up to sustainability challenges and put people and the planet at the heart of their response. The Foundation will support a new phase of the project, developing and sharing revised guidance on how businesses can drive lasting change along with real-world examples of trailblazing businesses already putting theory into practice. Renewable World enable people living in poverty to transform their lives by improving their access to clean energy, empowering them to develop sustainable and resilient livelihoods, and mitigating the impact of climate change. The Foundation will be supporting The CLASS Project in western Nepal’s Banke National Park, which will pilot clean energy approaches to improve livelihoods, conservation, safety and sustainability. Part of the luxury marque’s industry-leading Beyond100 strategy, the Bentley Environmental Foundation highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting sustainability initiatives on a global scale. In its first 12 months, the Foundation’s existing seven partners have already achieved a number of key milestones. These include: A series of SeaTrees projects in Kenya, Spain and Portugal have resulted in the planting of over 200,000 mangrove trees, the restoration of 15,000 m2 of seagrass and the creation of local jobs Both SeaTrees and river clean-up charity everwave have also featured in the BBC’s Blue Horizons documentary series Foundation funding has successfully transitioned the Biomimicry Institute’s Ray of Hope Prize from a ten-week prize competition into a six-month accelerator, with a series of new start-ups due to be announced shortly Elsewhere, Blue Marine Foundation funding supported a scientific expedition in the Dominican Republic – the investment ensured the country committed to protecting over 30 per cent of its waterways A Volkswagen Group collaboration with the Audi Environmental Foundation and the Ferry Porsche Foundation in Thailand will start collecting over 20 tons of river waste every month, while a new education programme will raise awareness of the problem of river waste Last month (May 2024), the Bentley Environmental Foundation welcomed the launch of Drawdown’s Capital Coalition. The new initiative for impact investors and philanthropists guides private capital to strategic, science-based climate solutions, all under the watchful eye of Dr. Jonathan Foley Finally, closer to the Bentley headquarters in Crewe, England, a project with The River’s Trust is well underway to regenerate the Valley Brook River, with two traineeships improving local environmental skills Beyond the impact of philanthropy alone, the Bentley Environmental Foundation has enjoyed further achievements. Alumni of the Biomimicry Institute’s Ray of Hope Prize pitched to Bentley’s own design department, inspiring its internal team to consider the further integration and application of nature-inspired projects. A ‘Let’s Talk Sustainability’ forum was created to discuss sustainability topics, hosted by Bentley’s expert partners for more than 4,000 colleagues in Crewe. Meanwhile, volunteering opportunities for Bentley colleagues have been hosted throughout the year, with integrated content from Foundation partners also added to the company’s eAcademy curriculum. Bentley also continues to inspire and educate early career colleagues by providing placements via the Foundation, who have recently become proud members of the Environmental Funders Network and Catalyst 2030. Commenting on the new partnerships, Gavin Ellis, Director and Co-Founder of Hubbub, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Bentley Foundation to increase both access and connection to nature for communities across the UK. Our work together will support grass roots community-led green spaces to thrive, which will lead to multiple environmental and wellbeing improvements for those who use them.” Dr Sally Uren OBE, Forum for the Future’s Chief Executive, said: “At Forum for the Future, we believe the next wave of sustainability will be centred around a ‘just and regenerative’ mindset – one that puts people and planet at the heart of responses to the issues we face. That’s why we’re partnering with the Bentley Environmental Foundation. Together, we will update the ‘Business Transformation Compass’, which originally launched in 2021. The revised toolkit is set to inspire by providing real-world examples from trailblazer companies already putting guidance into practice. Forum will also step up its outreach – working alongside business schools to reach future generations of business leaders.” Eamon Cassidy, CEO of Renewable World, added: “We are delighted by our new partnership with the Bentley Environmental Foundation. Our partnership will support communities and other stakeholders seeking to build sustainable livelihoods, tackle climate change and reduce human-wildlife conflict. This is a great opportunity to test a package of recently piloted…

Ultra-rare Siata 208 CS to star at Concours of Elegance 2024

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One-of-nine Siata 208 CS Balbo confirmed for Concours line-up Steve McQueen nicknamed his 208 CS ‘Little Ferrari’ It’s one of 70 of the world’s rarest cars set to join the event in the Main Concours display, with over 500 cars in total set to be on display across the weekend Other highlights include live discussions, special features and luxury retail display Event will run from 30th August to 1st September; tickets are on sale now here Full selection of images: here London, UK (13th June 2024): The Concours of Elegance is proud to announce the addition of a truly unique and historically significant automobile to its 2024 line-up: the 1953 Siata 208 CS Balbo. With only nine originally built and seven still in existence, this rare gem is set to be one of the highlights of this year’s event; a spectacular example of the model that Steve McQueen christened his ‘little Ferrari’. The 1953 Siata 208 CS Balbo, chassis number CS 071, is powered by a Fiat 8V eight-cylinder engine and features a stunning Carrozzeria Balbo-bodied aluminum coupe design. This particular example boasts a remarkable history of single-family ownership since 1959, meticulously documented from its origins to the present day. It also retains its matching numbers as per its Siata body tag. Initially imported to the United States by renowned dealer Tony Pompeo, the car quickly entered the racing circuit. It was competed across the northeast United States from 1953 to 1959, participating in events such as the Floyd Bennett Grand Prize Cup and the Keene Mountain Hill Climb. Following its racing career, the car was discovered on a used car lot in Queens, New York, by Dr. Julius Eisenstark in 1959. It was love at first sight, and Dr. Eisenstark purchased the car, marking the beginning of a multi-decade relationship between the Eisenstark family and this extraordinary vehicle. Under Dr. Eisenstark’s care, the Siata underwent numerous modifications to transition it from a bare-bones race car to a more civilized GT suitable for everyday use. In 2017, the car was involved in an accident but was subsequently restored to its former glory by Automotive Restorations Inc. of Stratford, Connecticut. This meticulous restoration returned the car to its original colours and included a comprehensive repair of its aluminium body and a rebuild of its original Fiat 8V engine. The restoration effort was rewarded with a Best in Class win at the 2018 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Since then, the Siata has continued to be a showstopper, appearing at prestigious events in the USA such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It also made a star turn in the popular show “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” with Jerry Seinfeld and his guest, the comedian Steve Martin. The car’s legacy is a testament to its exceptional design and engineering, as well as the dedication and passion of its owners. The 1953 Siata 208 CS Balbo represents one of the 70 rare and spectacular cars that will be showcased at the Concours of Elegance 2024. This event promises to be a celebration of automotive history and luxury, featuring live discussions, special displays, and a range of luxury retail experiences. Away from the automotive displays, Concours of Elegance 2024 will again be an occasion of pure luxury, with champagne provided by Charles Heidsieck, picnics by Fortnum & Mason, and a collection of art, jewellery and fashion displays. Presenting Partner A. Lange & Söhne will once again showcase some of its most intricate timepieces. Tickets to the Concours of Elegance are available now from www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets.

Alpine A290, the hot hatch for the electric age

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IntroductionAlpine ushers in a new era with the launch of the A290—the era of the electric sports car in Alpine mode, respecting the brand’s three pillars: performance, agility and lightweight, as well as French savoir-faire. The A290 is a new entry point into the Alpine world and inaugurates Alpine’s 100% electric Dream Garage. A GT C-Crossover and the new A110 will join the A290. The A290 incorporates all the sensations so appreciated behind the wheel of the A110 into an urban sportscar. Developed in perfect keeping with Alpine’s DNA, the A290 is compact and agile, offering easy-to-use high performance while guaranteeing comfortable everyday use. Its Ampere-derived electric platform and energy services to optimise home recharging, including Mobilize Power and bi-directional V2G recharging, make it part of a complete electrical ecosystem offering the best possible experience. With its cutting-edge design, first-class technical features, ultra-complete connectivity and numerous possibilities for personalising driving, the Alpine A290 is a true Alpine, a new generation designed to embrace the electric era. It has been designed to appeal to a new range of male and female customers, some of whom will be performance-oriented, while others will be more focused on style. The A290 is assembled at the Manufacture in Douai, within ElectriCity. The electric motor is also built in France at the Megafactory in Cléon. The battery will be produced in France beginning in the summer of 2025. Quote: Philippe Krief, CEO Alpine“Our Alpine A290 is the first model of a new electric generation, inaugurating our Dream Garage in the finest possible way. This urban sportscar marks the introduction of Alpine to a broader public and resurrects a forgotten category, the hot hatch, so much loved for the driving pleasure it delivers.” 1-An exterior design as a pure expression of sportinessProportions play a fundamental role in giving such a small urban car of less than 4 metres a muscular appearance commensurate with the performance it delivers. The AmpR Small platform provides an excellent basis for this, reinforced by a 60mm widening of the track to achieve the visual presence desired by the Antony Villain-led Alpine design team. As a result, the A290 can offer the attitude of a muscular hot hatch ready to spring into action. Its dimensions remain very compact: length 3,990 mm, width 1,820 mm, height 1,520 mm, wheelbase 2,530 mm. The A290 had to offer a distinctive character in the tradition of Jean Rédélé’s creations… A character made first and foremost by its unique lighting signature, recognisable from afar and comprising four headlamps, as on all Alpine models. In this case, they feature X-shaped motifs reminiscent of rally cars and automatically display a welcome animation when the hands-free card is detected as the owner approaches. The list of elements that contribute to the bold expression of this body is long: the wide wings, the side skirts incorporating a subtle body-coloured edging that refines them, the aluminium roof edge (or anodised blue as standard on specific versions), the optional French flag on the C-pillar, the black shark antenna (standard), the wing logos (depending on version), the black lacquered body surround and wings, the distinctive line animating the rear door and, finally, the diffuser on the rear bumper. At the front, Alpine is spelt out, and a typical snowflake motif is integrated into the exclusive sports bumper. At every stage of the body design process, the aerodynamic factor has been considered, which is particularly important when maximising electric range. Pursuing maximum efficiency has shaped the air intake in the bumper to create a beneficial air flow, as well as the wide side skirts, the diffuser, the vanes and the shape of the rear lights. The A290 does not incorporate an oversized spoiler that would have disrupted the rear flow, but rather a ‘ducktail’ at the tailgate to underline its sportiness. The standard 19-inch alloy wheels come in two exclusive designs. The Iconic wheel design was created to reference the wheels on the Alpine A310. In contrast, the Snowflake wheels recall the origins of the Alpine name and are available in gloss black, semi-diamond black or diamond black finishes. A blue background behind the Alpine logo on the wheels is available as an option. The Brembo 4-piston monobloc front brake callipers with Alpine branding are the same as those on the A110. The front and rear callipers are available in Racing Red or Alpine Blue. The catalogue includes four body colours, including a new Alpine Vision Blue, a signature colour that has been given particular depth to provide greater contrast between light and dark areas. The A290 is also available in Deep Black, Nival White and Matte Tornado Grey. A limited Première Edition of 1,955 will be available at launch in 4 versions: Première Édition, Beta, La Bleue, La Grise. Quote: Antony Villain, Alpine Design Director“We conceived the A290 as an ultra-compact variation of the A110, in the purest style of small sports cars or hot hatches. A small Alpine with a character that, at first glance, expresses its potential for driving pleasure to appeal to styling fans and performance enthusiasts alike. The A290 incorporates into a production model the directions from 2023 with the A290_β concept, a true concentrate of Alpine.” Encadré:The A290_β show-carIn 2023, Alpine presented its A290_β (A290 ‘beta’) show car, a preview of what the production A290 would become. It was revealed spectacularly with BWT Alpine F1 Team drivers Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon. The show car interprets the design intentions for the A290, representing the first model in Alpine’s Dream Garage. With two front motors and torque vectoring, FFSA homologation for track use, a central driver position and two side passenger seats, the A290_β is conceived as a next-generation electric racing car. Designed in the same spirit as the Alpenglow concept car, it cultivates the brand’s codes, reinterpreted in the light of the electric era. It contains many of the same features as the production A290, including the typical X-shaped visual signature of the four lights, the distinctive wing treatments,…

Polestar opens eighth Space in Sheffield

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Sheffield, UK – 13 June 2024. Polestar, the Swedish electric performance car brand, will open its eighth UK Space in the Meadowhall Shopping Centre in Sheffield on Friday 14 June, replacing its temporary pop-up location at the popular retail destination. The Space will be part of Meadowhall Shopping Centre’s large array of 310 shops, restaurants, and leisure spots. The opening coincides with the arrival of the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 later this year. The Space, located on the first floor of the shopping centre, will feature a sleek, minimalist design complemented by seamless digital interactions and knowledgeable product specialists. Customers will have the freedom to tailor their entire journey, from initial enquiry through to the delivery of their preferred Polestar model. On-site test drives will be available, with options for deliveries to home or office addresses. Meadowhall Shopping Centre has also contributed to the promotion of electric vehicles by installing 30 charging points throughout the centre. Furthermore, it hosts the largest solar panel installation of any UK shopping centre, comprising 3,418 panels covering 60,000 square feet. This installation generates 770,000 kWh of solar energy annually, equivalent to the electricity consumption of 230 average UK households. Sheffield City Council also created a Clean Air Zone last year in a bid to increase air quality in the city. Head of Polestar UK, Jonathan Goodman said: “We are thrilled to be opening our eighth Space in the United Kingdom during what promises to be an exciting year for the brand. The timing is perfect with the upcoming arrival of the Polestar 3, our luxury SUV, and the Polestar 4, our SUV coupé. As a shopping centre committed to a sustainable future, Meadowhall was an obvious choice for our next Polestar Space.” Darren Pearce, centre director at Meadowhall, commented: “We’re thrilled to be welcoming Polestar to Meadowhall. It’s set to be a really exciting addition to the centre, with its sustainable ethos reflecting our own commitment to making a positive impact on the planet. “We’re constantly looking to bring new, premium brands to the centre, enhancing the experience for our customers, and Polestar is one of a number of exciting arrivals on The Avenue this year. As the only Polestar Space within Yorkshire, we’ve no doubt it’s set to be a hit.” Polestar Sheffield opens its doors to the public on Friday 14 June. Ends.

Maserati Grecale features at 50th G7 summit in Borgo Egnazia, Puglia

Industry News

Modena, 13 June 2024 – Maserati Grecale is the official car of the 50th meeting of the G7, taking place under the Italian presidency at Borgo Egnazia, in the municipality of Fasano di Puglia, from 13 to 15 June 2024. In one of the most important and significant institutional events in the world, Maserati Grecale is confirmed as the ideal vehicle for official events: an “everyday exceptional” car in all its guises. A fleet of 20 Grecales, in the Modena version, accompany the representatives of the participating countries in their movements during the summit, providing the comfort and elegance ensured by the Trident’s 100% “Made in Italy” SUV.All the cars feature Storm Black metallic paint, black leather interiors with grey stitching, privacy rear windows and 20” wheels in gloss black, with their red brake callipers standing out. With its 330-hp 4-cylinder mild hybrid engine, Grecale Modena perfectly embodies the concepts of innovation, versatility and luxury, offering an optimal driving experience in everyday use. Grecale Modena guarantees the utmost space, innovative technological content, a discreet style, but is at the same time dynamic and captivating, sealed by the unmistakable sound of the Maserati engine and the power of the three-dimensional Sonus faber audio system.Grecale is also available in the GT variant, equipped with a 300-hp 4-cylinder mild hybrid; in the powerful Trofeo version with the 530-hp Nettuno V6; and in the innovative Folgore version, with its 100% electric 410-kW engine and 400-volt technology, the Trident’s first full-electric SUV. At the Press Room, set up in a dedicated area of the Fiera del Levante trade fair venue in Bari, Maserati is exhibiting two cars: a GranTurismo Trofeo, a veritable icon of the House of the Trident, in the Giallo Genio colour; and the MC20 Cielo spyder super sports car, featuring Blue Victory livery. Maserati S.p.A.Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally. The Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, and the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, all models characterised by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The new GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. Today the full-electric range includes also the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first full-electric SUV. By 2025, all Maserati models will also be available in a full-electric version, and the entire Maserati range will run on electricity alone by 2028. For further information:MASERATIDavide Kluzer – Product Communication Responsible, Maserati – davide.kluzer@maserati.com

The new BMW M2

Industry News

New BMW M2 further raises the bar for driving pleasure, combining compact dimensions, updated chassis technology and 20 hp increase in power output. New exterior design accents, a refreshed interior, and the introduction of BMW Operating System 8.5. 14 exterior paint colours including new Sao Paulo Yellow and BMW Individual Paint Finishes Java Green, Voodoo Blue, and Twilight Purple. Priced from £63,360 RRP, the new BMW M2 is available to order at BMW retailers across the UK, with customer deliveries starting in autumn 2024. The new BMW M2 once again sets the benchmark for driving pleasure in a compact two-door form, featuring a straight-six engine, an optional six-speed manual gearbox, and rear-wheel drive. Combining compact dimensions, improved chassis technology, and state-of-the-art operating concept with the M Setup functionality, the new M2 is poised to write the next chapter in BMW M’s history of success in this segment. The new BMW M2 (fuel consumption, combined: 28.8 – 29.4 mpg; CO2 emissions, combined: 223 – 218 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G) offers more power, new exterior design accents, a refreshed interior, and the introduction of BMW Operating System 8.5. With 20 hp added to its output, the high-revving six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology now tops out at 480 hp. The new BMW M2 will be built alongside the new BMW 2 Series Coupé at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico with production starting in August 2024 and first UK customer deliveries in autumn 2024. The new BMW M2 is priced from £63,360 RRP and available to order at BMW retailers across the UK from today. Model Max Power1 (hp) Peak Torque1 (Nm) Acceleration1(0-62mph) (secs) Top Speed2(mph) CO2Emissions*(WLTP) (g/km) FuelConsumption Combined* (WLTP) (mpg) RRP Starting Price(excluding OTR costs) BMW M2 480 600 /(550)3 4.0 /(4.2)3 155 / (177)4 223 – 218 28.8 – 29.4 £63,360 1 All figures relating to performance, consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. 2 Electronically limited. 3 When optional manual gearbox is fitted. 4 Top speed with optional M Driver’s Package. Six-cylinder in-line engine with extra output and torque.As well as raw power, the unique way in which the six-cylinder in-line engine delivers that power plays a key role in the performance experience offered by the new BMW M2. The upgraded version of the engine provides a stronger linear delivery of power, sustained into the higher reaches of the rev range – a hallmark feature of M models. Its maximum torque is on tap across a wide rev band between 2,650 and 6,130 rpm and the new BMW M2 with the optional six-speed manual gearbox, peak torque remains 550 Nm. When power is channelled via the standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, the figure rises to 600 Nm. The engine produces its increased maximum output of 480 hp at 6,250 rpm, with revs topping out at 7,200 rpm. Further improvements have been made to the accelerator mapping and response in all drive modes selectable via the M Setup menu. As a result, the new BMW M2 offers noticeably more rapid reactions to the driver’s requests for acceleration – both when specified with the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and with the optional six-speed manual gearbox. The ability of the new BMW M2 to offer improved power delivery is rooted in an exceptionally strong technological base – its 3.0-litre engine only slightly differs from the unit in the BMW M3/BMW M4 range. Racing expertise delivers smile-inducing performance.As well as its pair of mono-scroll turbochargers, an indirect intercooler and an electronically controlled wastegate, the M TwinPower Turbo technology of the straight-six engine also includes High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing. The engine has an array of details borrowed directly from racing car design including its lightning-fast response, appetite for revs and high-performance capability in track use. These details include an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, a forged crankshaft with lightweight design, cylinder bores with a wire-arc sprayed iron coating and a 3D-printed core for the cylinder head. The M-specific cooling system ensures the powertrain components maintain an optimal operating temperature even under heavy loads and the oil circuit is designed to handle extreme dynamic driving situations. A map-controlled oil pump ensures reliable oil supply even under extreme acceleration. The engine sends its drive power through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard. The Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever makes it possible to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics, with a choice of three clearly distinguishable settings. Both the selector lever in the latest M design and the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel enable sequential interventions in the gear selection process at any time. Drivers keen to blend an intensely engaging performance experience with even more direct interaction with the powertrain can specify the six-speed manual gearbox as an option. This links up with the Gear Shift Assistant, which uses engagement speed control to ensure slip-free operation when downshifting under braking into corners. Whichever transmission customers choose for their BMW M2, the increased engine output shaves 0.1 seconds off its 0 to 62 mph time: the new BMW M2 records a figure of 4.0 seconds with the standard transmission or 4.2 seconds if specified with the optional six-speed manual gearbox. The increase in power also makes its presence felt over the 0 to 124 mph sprint, delivering an improvement of 0.6 seconds in the case of the BMW M2 with eight-speed M Steptronic transmission (now 12.9 seconds), and lowering the time posted by cars with the optional manual gearbox by 0.6 seconds (to 13.7 seconds). The top speed of the new BMW M2 is 155 mph but can be increased to 177 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package. The dynamic power delivery is backed by an emotionally rich engine note conjured by the M-specific…

NewRiver REIT plc and Osprey Charging Network form new EV rapid charging partnership

Industry News

NewRiver REIT plc (“NewRiver”) and Osprey Charging Network open their first EV rapid charging site in the heart of Warminster, part of their new partnership. New public charging facility is open at NewRiver’s Three Horseshoes Walk Shopping Centre in central Warminster, Wiltshire, comprising four rapid EV chargers compatible with every Electric Vehicle (EV) on the market. Charge points will add 100 miles of range in around 35 minutes, and are simple to use and pay for with the tap of a bank card. The new partnership gives the potential for an additional 31 reliable, rapid charging points across NewRiver’s UK-wide retail portfolio, complementing existing charging points. Customers of major retail brands including M&S Food, Boots and B&M are set to benefit from improved access to EV charge points whilst they shop. Osprey Charging, one of the UK’s largest and leading rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, and leading Real Estate Investment Trust NewRiver REIT plc (“NewRiver”), who own and manage of a portfolio of community shopping centres and conveniently located retail parks across the UK, announce a new partnership, part of NewRiver’s ongoing commitment to its sustainability strategy. An Osprey Charging facility providing four rapid charge points is open for customers at NewRiver’s Three Horseshoes Walk Shopping Centre in central Warminster, which will improve access to charging in Wiltshire, whilst the wider collaboration will improve the convenience of public EV charging for customers of major retail brands such as M&S Food, Boots and B&M. The charge points are compatible with every EV on the market today and typically add 100 miles of range in around 35 minutes, making them the ideal choice for a charging up whilst visiting the myriad of shops, cafes and eateries in central Warminster. Furthermore, the chargers are easy to use and designed with simple payment for all drivers, accepting contactless bank cards, Apple/Google Pay, the Osprey App and RFID card payments, as well as payments through all major third-party payment methods including fleet cards. EV charging differentiates retail locations and future-proofs the asset, attracting en-route fleet and private drivers as well as local residents and businesses for the long-term. And with access to charging being one of the greatest barriers to EV adoption, the introduction of more charger locations is critical. Installing reliable chargers at busy shopping areas, where high volumes of existing customers drive each year, gives consumers confidence in choosing electric cars which is why NewRiver’s popular retail destinations are so well-suited. Osprey cover all costs associated with installing and servicing the rapid charging points while sharing the profits, minimising financial risk. Andrew Nosworthy, Commercial Director at Osprey Charging said: “We’re delighted to be working with NewRiver to help future-proof their retail destinations by providing reliable, rapid EV charging for their retailers’ customers. This first charging site in Warminster is part of the re-charging network that will enable the decarbonisation of transport in the UK, and NewRiver’s forward-thinking strategy will ensure they stay ahead of the curve by equipping their retail locations to meet growing EV charging demand.” This announcement is Osprey’s latest partnership in the retail property sector, where the charging business has a five-year track record of installing over 200 rapid charge points for portfolio owners including Ediston, London & Scottish Investments, M7 Real Estate and Brookhouse Group. ENDS Notes to editorsFor more information about Osprey, images and to arrange interviews, please contact:media@ospreycharging.co.uk About NewRiver REITNewRiver REIT plc is a leading Real Estate Investment Trust specialising in buying, managing and developing resilient retail assets throughout the UK. NewRiver’s portfolio totals £0.54 billion, covering 6.1 million sq ft and comprises 24 community shopping centres and 12 conveniently located retail parks occupied by tenants predominately focused on essential goods and services. In addition NewRiver manage 18 retail parks and 5 shopping centres on behalf of Capital Partners, taking total Assets Under Management to £1.3 billion. NewRiver’s objective is to own and manage the most resilient retail portfolio in the UK, focused on retail parks, core shopping centres, and regeneration opportunities in order to deliver long term attractive recurring income returns and capital growth for its shareholders. NewRiver has a Premium Listing on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (ticker: NRR). Visit www.nrr.co.uk for further information. About Osprey Charging NetworkOsprey Charging Network is a UK-wide, rapid electric vehicle charging network. Osprey fund, install and manage their network on behalf of landlord partners. The Osprey network is built to be reliable and easy to use. All Osprey chargers accept contactless payments, App payments, RFID payments and payment through all major third-party payment methods including fleet cards. Every charging point is also powered by 100% renewable electricity. Osprey Charging has been voted as one of the Top 3 Charging Networks in Zapmap’s annual rankings, and has been awarded ‘EV Driver Recommended Network’ status for the fourth consecutive year. At the 2023 Transport and Energy awards, Osprey was named Best EV Charging Network, and this was followed by a quadruple win at the Electric Vehicle Innovation and Excellence Awards (EVIEs). These awards included Chargepoint Network of the Year and Private Sector Infrastructure Strategy of the Year. More information on Osprey can be found at https://ospreycharging.co.uk